Are "Uncool" Names Making a Comeback? Why Babies Are Getting Grandpa’s Name

If you’ve started hearing names like Arthur, Mabel, or Dorothy and imagining Sunday family dinners at your grandparents’ house, don’t be alarmed—these "uncool" names are officially back in style! It seems today’s parents are picking names that were last on-trend when typewriters were cutting-edge. Why? Well, these throwback names are a refreshing break from all the Jaydens and Islas filling up kindergarten rosters. You can just picture a little Evelyn sitting primly in her crib or a baby Alfred who seems like he’s one bowtie away from giving a TED Talk on fine teas.

For girls, vintage names like Hazel, Eleanor, and Beatrice are taking off, with parents rediscovering the timeless charm of names that make every baby sound like a Southern belle or a Broadway star. And then there's Edith, which is suddenly back and perfect for parents who want a name that says, "I come with my own hat collection."

The boys are no less quirky. Names like Frederick, Harvey, and Albert may have once sounded a bit too... well, retired, but now they're trending among parents who want a little gravitas with their toddler tantrums. Can’t you just picture a baby Franklin, calmly chewing his pacifier and already planning his first book club?

This trend towards "uncool" names is likely a reaction to years of highly unique, modern names. Parents today are finding a fresh appeal in vintage names with history and depth, and they’re seeing the quirky charm in names that once seemed outdated. Whether you’re drawn to Mabel for its quiet, old-world feel or Alfred for its charmingly intellectual vibe, a bit of grandparent chic could be the perfect fit.